THE CONFIDENCE.
“I have changed the venue, Charley,” said Power, as he came into my room the following morning,—“I’ve changed the venue, and come to breakfast with you.”
I could not help smiling as a certain suspicion crossed my mind; perceiving which, he quickly added,—
“No, no, boy! I guess what you’re thinking of. I’m not a bit jealous in that quarter. The fact is, you know, one cannot be too guarded.”
“Nor too suspicious of one’s friends, apparently.”
“A truce with quizzing. I say, have you reported yourself?”
“Yes; and received this moment a most kind note from the general. But it appears I’m not destined to have a long sojourn among you, for I’m desired to hold myself in readiness for a journey this very day.”
“Where the deuce are they going to send you now?”
“I’m not certain of my destination. I rather suspect there are despatches for Badajos. Just tell Mike to get breakfast, and I’ll join you immediately.”
When I walked into the little room which served as my salon, I found Power pacing up and down, apparently wrapped in meditation.